An Empowered Survivor: Fabiola’s Story

At 22 years old, Fabiola was living with an abusive spouse, cramped in a rented bedroom, and pregnant with her second child. Having been in the U.S. for less than two years, Fabiola was completely dependent on her husband financially, and although surrounded by her family, she felt isolated and alone.

Overwhelmed by her circumstances, Fabiola sank into a deep depression, and grew weaker as she lost her appetite. She began having suicidal tendencies, and even went as far as cutting herself. Despite efforts to keep her marital problems from affecting her family, it was through her sister that she was referred to MOMS Orange County and entered the Bridges Program.

After her first home visit by Larissa, her Maternal Child Health Worker, Fabiola was immediately referred to MOMS Brave Mothers Program, created to support women suffering from Maternal Depression. Fabiola began receiving individualized counseling sessions from MOMS on-site social worker, Raquel. Through 12 weeks of comprehensive therapy, Fabiola learned about the resources available to her and how to develop concrete goals.

In a marriage that initially seemed hopeless, Fabiola began taking small steps towards redefining her self-worth, improving her coping skills and empowering herself to take control of her life. With the continued support from her family and MOMS, Fabiola made the decision to separate from her husband, just weeks away from giving birth.

Making such a decision is no small feat, yet Fabiola continued to persevere through her counseling sessions, as well as regularly attending MOMS Pre-natal education classes. Although the healing process was gradual, Fabiola recognized that she wanted better for her children. In the end, she regained her appetite, began to smile a bit more than before and was more attentive to her daughter and newborn son, Giovanni. Having made the choices to ensure a more positive future for herself and her children, Fabiola is an empowered survivor.